Republican congressman John Rutherford has collapsed during a vote in the House.

The newly sworn-in representative from Florida suffered a 'medical emergency' in a cloakroom during a series of sessions on Wednesday, reports suggest.

The 64-year-old former sheriff was then taken out of the Capitol on a stretcher.

Simone Pathe, a reporter for Roll Call, initially said he heard from Rutherford's colleagues that he had suffered a 'massive heart attack'.

However the politcian's chief of staff later said he did not suffer cardiac arrest, and was in 'good spirits' in hospital.

Republican congressman John Rutherford has collapsed during a vote in the House. The newly sworn-in representative from Florida suffered a 'medical emergency' during a vote on Wednesday, reports suggest

Kelly Simpson, Rutherford's chief of staff, said in a statement: 'He did not suffer a heart attack, but he continues to be evaluated by doctors.

'A further update on the Congressman's condition will be provided once doctors have finished their evaluation.

'The Rutherford family appreciates the prayers, thoughts, and support they have received this evening.'

According to The Hill, he was receiving oxygen through a mask when he was wheeled to an ambulance.

Rutherford is a former sheriff from Jacksonville, Florida.

He was elected to Congress in November, succeeding Republican Ander Crenshaw, who retired after eight terms.